Thought i would show some new product from West Coast Model Tugs in Canada. There are 2 different styles and sizes of rubber tire cut/ fendering that fits several sizes of models from 1/12th scale to 1/48 depending on type. This is a silicone based product so that it is soft, flexible, and durable! Also available are tires that will work for several different applications.

Pat-- replicates the fendering found on a lot of the West Coast Canadian tugs. The small log style tugs especially ( under 50'). They usally cut a tire in several places to stretch it out and wrap around the hull. More modern tractors will use the same set up there as well.

Umi, that picture in your post above with the fending is very nice looking stuff. I work for Shaver Transportation here locally and we have that on several of our boats and I know that is common elsewhere too on workboats. If it is something you're developing I say keep going on it.